Quantum Dot Lateral Flow Assays

Point-of-care testing technology has exceptional capabilities for detecting biomarkers for a wide range of diseases thanks to its speed, ease of use, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. One such POCT strategy is the lateral flow immunoassay. It is a well-established testing platform and a powerful tool for rapid, low-cost detection as it requires no specialized equipment, and results can be observed directly with the naked eye.

To improve the sensitivity and specificity of LFA and enable the quantitative analysis of test results, researchers have developed fluorescence immunochromatographic assays that use fluorescent reporter molecules. Compared to conventional methods, fluorescent immunoassays offer greater sensitivity as they produce higher-intensity bands on both the test and control lines.

Quantum dots (QDs) are a highly promising class of fluorescent reporter molecule. These are minute semiconductor nanocrystals with diameters ranging from 2 to 10 nanometres. They possess unique electronic properties that lie between those of bulk semiconductors and discrete molecules, partly due to their high specific surface area.